Courtesy Is Only Rule

March 7, 1988

I DRIVE an 18-wheeler around Orange and Osceola counties daily. I average 35,000 miles per year in these two counties. I drove in New York City and the Northeast for 10 years before coming here three years ago.

My compliments go to the vast majority of drivers in Central Florida. Yes, the drivers in the Northeast may be a little more skillful, but they lack the courtesy of the Central Floridians.

I prefer courtesy over skill. We must share our roads. This means giving the other fellow a break and using the manners your parents taught.

As this area becomes more congested, many drivers will be stripped of this civility, and skill will replace people's good style.

Recently the Sentinel had a compilation of stories about violence on the highways. Rather than clear the air, it was a reckless rallying cry for guns. Rule No. 1 should be that the only communications taking place between drivers will be courteous. Don't block side roads. Let the other guy ahead with a wave of your hand and a smile -- no fingers. Communicate with your horn by a friendly tap -- a blast is a last ditch effort to avoid a collision. If you have reason to believe you have erred, do not communicate if you cannot sincerely convey your apology.